MEXICO CITY -- Perhaps better-known for impossible traffic, kidnappings and some of the world's worst air, Mexico's sprawling capital of 20 million seems like the last place you would go for natural splendor and pristine wilderness.
OAXACA, Mexico -- The zocalo of this colonial city looked exactly as I remembered it. Broad, inviting shade trees. Musicians playing mariachi or marimba. Strings of colored bulbs lighting up the night. Women balancing trays of fruit drinks on their heads, looking for thirsty buyers. And lots of townsfolk and tourists.